Sitting proudly along Balmain’s blossoming tree-lined streets are a generous number of dining spots pouring some of Sydney’s best coffee, and plating up tender treats for their patrons.

Many among them are already local institutions, but we think it’s time the word got out for people far and wide to swing on by, enjoy a cuppa and chow down for breakfast, lunch, dinner or any naughty snacking in between. We’ve done the intense work (if you call eating your way through two suburbs a life-ruiner), and come up with our favourite dining order – but that doesn’t mean you can’t commit to a future return for any other mealtime munching. Words by Ryan Auberson-Walsh

For too long Byron Bay and Nimbin have held the eastern coast crowns of best ‘alternative’ towns. Ryan Auberson-Walsh thinks it’s time to have another look at somewhere a little further north – 1874km to be exact – and wander the streets of Cairns – the human hub of the Great Barrier Reef.

No matter where in the world we are, there’s nothing quite like spending an evening sharing a drink with pals in a themed venue like a creepy house or a good Mexican cantina. These are three of Melbourne’s best offerings – and some of them are insanely cool. Words by Ryan Auberson-Walsh

This is the place that demonstrates the quiet soft power of Canberra. It’s a perfect excuse to spend time in a city that’s burgeoning coffee and art scene is consistently outshined by any and all political drama that’s unfolding in parliament house. Words by Ryan Auberson-Walsh